Ralph Puckett Jr., a retired Army colonel who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Korean War, has passed away at the age of 97. Puckett led a company of Army Rangers in battle, where he displayed extraordinary bravery and leadership. President Joe Biden praised Puckett for his selflessness and honored him with the nation’s highest military honor in 2021, more than seven decades after the events in Korea. Puckett, a newly commissioned Army officer at the time, volunteered for the 8th Army Ranger Company and ended up leading the unit into battle with less than six weeks of training.
During a two-day battle in November 1950 near Unsan, Puckett and his Rangers secured a strategically important hill, despite being outnumbered and facing multiple counterattacks from Chinese forces. Puckett sustained serious injuries, but his troops refused to leave him behind. He was initially awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor after a policy change. Puckett’s actions in Korea exemplified his fearlessness and dedication to his fellow soldiers, earning him multiple military honors throughout his career.
Despite his injuries in Korea, Puckett continued to serve in the Army for another 20 years before retiring in 1971. He received a second Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in Vietnam, where he led an airborne infantry battalion and rescued wounded soldiers under heavy fire. Puckett’s military career was marked by his courage, leadership, and commitment to the soldiers under his command. He was described as a man who feared no enemy and was always ready to face any challenge.
Born in Georgia in 1926, Puckett graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point before embarking on his military career. After retiring from the Army, Puckett remained involved in leadership and teamwork development programs, imparting important life lessons to future generations. He also continued to support the 75th Ranger Regiment stationed near his home in Columbus, Georgia. Puckett’s legacy as a courageous and dedicated soldier will continue to inspire others for years to come, as he embodied the values of selflessness and service to his country.
Ralph Puckett Jr.’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to serving his country and leading by example. His actions in Korea and Vietnam showcased his bravery and unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers, earning him the admiration and respect of all who knew him. Puckett’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the lessons he imparted during his long and distinguished military career. His passing is a loss for the military community, but his memory will continue to inspire future generations of soldiers to strive for excellence and embody the values of courage, selflessness, and dedication to duty.
President Joe Biden’s remarks at Puckett’s Medal of Honor ceremony reflected the deep admiration and gratitude felt towards the retired colonel. Puckett’s humility and dedication to his fellow soldiers were evident throughout his life, as he continued to serve and support the military even after retiring from active duty. His impact on the soldiers he commanded and the communities he served will be felt for years to come, as his legacy serves as a reminder of the selfless sacrifice and unwavering commitment of America’s military heroes. Puckett’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his memory will forever be honored and cherished by a grateful nation.
